www.evercannabis.com
DECEMBER 2018
EVERCANNABIS m
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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
EVERCANNABIS
®
ISSUE 11
VOLUME 3
EVERCANNABIS® is a supplement to The Spokesman-Review
Proud member of
www.evercannabis.com Free Digital Archives Online evercannabis@spokesman.com 509.459.5095
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT Kathleen Coleman DIRECTOR OF SALES Dan Fritts MANAGING EDITOR Joe Butler
3
december
6
FLAVOR AT A BETTER PRICE
10
Yield Farms excited about new products
LOOKING FORWARD
Spokane Green Leaf still going strong
SEASON OF GIVING All sorts of treats available
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CREATIVE DIRECTOR Anne Potter GRAPHIC DESIGNER Trish Merryman SALES LEAD Wes Ward
Shop Talk ......................................... 5
LOCAL CONTRIBUTORS
Upcoming Events ............................. 9
Tracy Damon
The Power of Pot ............................. 10
THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW EDITORIAL TEAM
Strain of the Month ......................... 14
Nicholas Deshais Shawn Vestal
THE SPOKESMAN-REVIEW www.spokesman.com news@spokesman.com 509.459.5400
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SUCCESSFUL EVENT Lemonhaze attracts large crowd
Odd Duck ....................................... 17 Cannabis News ............................... 18 Cooking with Cannabis ................... 23
Marijuana and marijuana-infused products are legal for Washington residents 21 years and older. It has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. It can impair concentration, coordination and judgment. There may be health risks associated with consumption.
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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EDITOR’S
2019
Words of Wisdom
EVERC NNAFEST promises fun for all
Happy New Year, almost! This issue and the next will include various stories and predictions about what’s ahead in 2019. Though we’ve been saying this for the last few years, the upcoming year looks like there are plenty of unknowns ahead for cannabis structure and culture. Though great things have happened locally, nationally and internationally in 2018, there’s always a possibility of the system as we know it dramatically changing for the worst. The federal government really has been see-sawing so much on cracking down or ignoring the whole thing over the last two years. As Spokane attorney Frank Cinkotovich put it at a NORML event last spring, the whole system could destabilize in a hurry if the president has an especially bad day and needs to feel decisive about something, like being tough on drugs. Each step forward for cannabis though, especially through successful voter initiatives, helps makes the system a little more stable and a little more difficult to unwind. Legal pot in Canada could also be a good experiment in how countries can make things work – provided things go well there. One thing we do know for sure about 2019 is that Evercannabis plans to keep spreading the word about all the exciting developments in the legal cannabis industry. This includes recognizing individuals doing well, as well as sharing suggestions on how customers can improve their lives.
We’re also planning something even cooler for the community: our first big event. Mark your calendars for May 17-18 for the first-ever Evercannafest, which will offer two days of education and entertainment for not just the 502 industry but anyone over age 21 in the Inland Northwest. The Spokane Valley Event Center will be where the fun begins, with speakers, seminars, a trade show, networking opportunities and even some surprises! (By surprises, I mean that specific details are still being determined, but we promise to keep everyone posted as plans are finalized.) We’re doing this for all sorts of fun reasons – we love opportunities to help people connect around cannabis, including retailers, growers, affiliate businesses and consumers. So many people tell us that they want to know more about how cannabis can help them but aren’t sure if it’s safe to go in a store or what to do when they get there. It’s also an opportunity for people from the west side of the state to come see all the great things taking place and meet really cool people in Eastern Washington. Come check out Spokane! If you’d like more info about this event, including speaking or sponsorship opportunities or want to avoid the rush and pre-register now for a booth, please contact us at Evercannabis@spokesman.com. Joe Butler, Managing Editor
Interested in being a FREE EVERCANNABIS® distribution location? Please contact 509.459.5095 or evercannabis@spokesman.com
®
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
IS MARIJUANA ALREADY BECOMING MAINSTREAM FOR BUSINESSES? EXPERTS SAY SATIVA/INDICA RIVALRY PARALLELS COKE/PEPSI WARS By MARY SCHUMACHER The Fresh Toast
As cannabis is being infused into mainstream beverages, beauty products, sunscreens and a variety of food products – now legal to buy in Canada and much of the U.S. – it seems consumers may have already normalized what was stigmatized not long ago. Recently, a majority of respondents to a survey put out by the Chicago consulting firm A.T. Kearney said that their overall perception of mainstream companies wouldn’t change if said businesses became affiliated with cannabis. About a quarter of the respondents, however, said their impression of a company that aligned themselves with pot would actually improve. “This really speaks to the mainstreaming of cannabis, which, for the overall industry, I think is a positive thing,” Nancy Whiteman, CEO of Boulder, Colo., edibles maker Wana Brands told MJBizDaily.com. In a strange twist of irony, the industry that most people don’t want to see associated with cannabis is the alcohol industry. Perhaps it’s the layering of substances that seems sketchy, or perhaps people just like their spirits unadulterated. Whatever the reason, 18 percent of respondents said adding cannabis would leave a bad taste in their mouths. With the bigger companies coming in with big money and branding that’s been established for quite some time, what about the cannabis brands that have worked so hard to get the corners of the market that they occupy? “Innovation is the key in any industry,” Whiteman said. “Innovate or die, and I think companies in this industry understand innovation at a different level. They know what’s effective and what’s not effective.” Those who’ve been ingrained in the cannabis movement have watched carefully to see what works and what doesn’t. Another option that has a quieter, sadder ring to it is for the smaller companies to be absorbed by the giants who want the real knowledge they’ve amassed. Some will go for the big payout, some will innovate until they stand alone and some will become big brands themselves. As to the question if cannabis is mainstream yet for business, look to our Northern neighbors, look at Coca-Cola and Constellation Brands’ plans for infused beverages, look at all the CBD brands going mainstream and simply look around; it was built and they came. For more cannabis stories, visit www.thefreshtoast.com
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SHOP TALK LACEY SHOP SEARCHED
GREEN STAR CANNABIS NOW LOVELY BUDS
LACEY — Officers from Washington’s Liquor and Cannabis Board recently investigated Dank’s Wonder Emporium following reports that on-premises smoking had occurred at the retailer. Though licensed retailers can sell products to customers age 21 and up, any use in or around their locations is illegal, including employees or customers in a location’s parking lot. The state also bans cannabis clubs, cafes or lounges, which are private locations where people can use cannabis products. These are legal in some states. LCB officials said the board had heard reports and complaints that an illegal smoking club had been established at Dank’s Wonder Emporium. Enforcement officers visited the store in mid-October, which required the store to shut down for a day. During the search, officers confiscated marijuana products, drug paraphernalia and other items. The investigation is continuing and the store has re-opened. Brian E. Smith, spokesman for the LCB, said if the investigation does show that a club or on-site consumption by staff was taking place at the shop, then any license holders could potentially lose their licenses and possibly face criminal charges.
SPOKANE — Green Star Cannabis recently closed its doors but another cannabis retailer has taken over its location on Division Street. Lovely Buds will continue to sell a wide variety of retail products and accessories at 1403 N. Division, which is just a few blocks north of downtown Spokane, near the Gonzaga University area. Sam Calvert, owner of Green Star Cannabis, announced plans earlier in the year that he decided to sell the business. Calvert was active in helping the city of Spokane put together regulations for the new industry after the passage of Initiative 502, especially how licenses were initially distributed. However, he became increasingly concerned over what he felt were too many licenses being approved in city limits, nearly double the initial recommendation by a city/industry committee. Although the new owners have changed around some inventory and decor, much of the look of Green Star remains, including a colorful original mural. Lovely Buds also operates retail locations at 4107 Sprague Ave. and 1919 E. Francis.
Source: The Olympian
Source: Evercannabis
Share your information about new stores, new managers and new community promotions at:
EVERCANNABIS@SPOKESMAN.COM
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
6
YIELD FARMS LOOKING AHEAD Cartridges, terpene profiles to be focus in 2019
By JOE BUTLER EVERCANNABIS Writer
For the last few years, Yield Farms has built a solid reputation for its prerolls and its savory infused Firecrackers, which deliver the spicy taste of cheddar or ranch. Today, both products still sell well, but customers now are demanding more from the Tier 2 producer, especially extracts used in their vape pen cartridges. “Last January, our pre-rolls were about 25 percent of our business, and now they’re at about 5,” said Clay Schueman, who co-owns the Spokanebased Yield Farms with Colin Lukey. “Our Firecrackers have held steady at 5 percent too.” What’s really gaining in popularity are concentrates, not just here, but industry-wide. “The market has shifted away from flower, and more people now want products like cartridges, disposable pens and dabs,” Schueman said. “We’re small and we always have our ear to the ground so we can shift as needed.” Schueman and Lukey enjoy making their own deliveries to retailers around the state, which allows them to hear feedback about current customer preferences and needs. “We’ve been really fortunate,” he said. “We also work real hard.” What Yield Farms does is particularly unique: Schueman has figured out a way to put flavors back into its 710 OIL brand. In the typical CO2 extraction process, cannabis flower is put into a machine where it’s blasted by high-pressure liquid carbon dioxide, which separates the oil from the rest of the plant matter. The oil is then used to create a variety of potent products.
However, the extraction process strips out other things, including terpenes, which are individual natural scents and flavors unique to each strain of cannabis. All fruits and vegetables contain terpenes, which create the differences between oranges and apples, oranges and limes, and even between types of oranges. When terpenes are removed, partakers can still get high from their cannabis but won’t experience any of a strain’s subtle unique flavor and specific effects. Schueman has developed exact combinations of terpenes for certain strains, which he adds to the oil once the CO2 extraction process is complete. He currently has created recipes for about 20 common and exotic strains. This delivers something more flavorful and enjoyable than other extracts, plus more appealing than other extracts that focus just on the highest THC percentage. (THC is the compound that produces the psychoactive “high” associated with cannabis use.) “Consumers have been told that the best cannabis has the highest THC, just like alcohol content,” he said. “But if you look at it this way, this makes Everclear the best alcohol product around simply because it has the highest number on the bottle.” Liquor sales have shown that craft beer, wine, and other spirits with unique flavors are much more popular, largely because of their special characteristics, not because of alcohol content. “We can mix any terpenes and strains to order,” Schueman said. “Our formulas are consistent too – so if you try something, like it, and get it again and again, it will be exactly the same.” Lukey has managed this year’s harvest, which included seven strains. These should yield about 300 pounds of product, of which 70 percent will be used in extracts and the rest will be used in pre-rolls. “This has been a great learning year,” he said. “We’re excited to take the improvements we’ve made this year and make next year even better.”
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
Everyone needs
Schueman thinks it’s vital to build relationships with other growers, retailers, even local printers and packaging companies. Maintaining these relationships helps the farm stay flexible in a moving market.
stocking stuffers,
Along with its own grow area, the company also uses plants from four other farms around Spokane that share similar philosophies about quality and grow practices.
Make sure you stop by on the 22nd and 23rd for some
It’s especially important that budtenders become familiar with a product, since this has a role in what they recommend to customers. “Educating budtenders about the importance of quality cartridges with a quality battery goes a long way towards ensuring that their customers have a great experience,” Schueman said.
Great
Next year, Yield Farms wants to be even more accessible to cannabis customers.
Holiday Specials!
“Are we the biggest? We don’t want to be. I don’t want to try to manage 400 employees,” Schueman said. “Is our oil the best? Maybe, maybe not, but it does taste better since we try to find flavors that customers will enjoy.” It recently launched a budgetfriendly brand called Y.E.S. with a lower price point, like a suggested retail price of $30 for a pen instead of $40. But it also maintains the same high quality and great flavor. “We’re always looking for costeffective ways to do things, and help and expand our sales,” Schueman said. “We also like to keep learning, so next year we’re going to be bigger and better.” Following the successful 2018 fall harvest, Yield Farms is already making plans for what and how to plant in 2019. “The knowledge we picked up just this year alone has been just tremendous,” he said.
YIELD FARMS Spokane Tier2 Products: 710 OIL, Firecrackers, Y.E.S. www.yieldfarms.com The Yield Farms staff (opposite page) includes, from left, Clay Schueman, Lati Cain, Colin Lukey and James Hickey. Above, the Spokane Valley producer/processor grows plants as well as creates extracts and edibles. Photos by Joe Butler/Evercannabis
7
124 E RIVERSIDE AVE, IONE, WA
509-442-3420
Product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.
Hours: Mon - Sat 10-7 Sun 11-5
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
8
SEVERAL STATES APPROVE
MARIJUANA PROPOSITIONS By EVERCANNABIS Staff The biggest winner in the 2018 mid-term election wasn’t the progress or failure of Republicans or Democrats; it was cannabis.
These included Missouri and Utah.
Michigan voters approved recreational marijuana for adults, becoming the 10th state with this distinction.
Missouri plans a 4 percent tax on cannabis purchases, which will be directed to the state’s veterans commission. Residents can either receive a prescription from their doctor and buy at a dispensary or grow plants at home.
Once the new marketplace is up and running, shoppers can buy up to 2 ½ ounces anytime, which is more than double the per purchase limit of some states. Washington’s limits are 1 ounce of flower, 16 ounces of edibles, 7 grams of concentrate, and 72 ounces of liquid.
Utah residents aren’t able to grow their own, and there are also limits on smokable products.
Michigan residents can also grow up to 12 plants for their personal use, which is higher than the four- to six-plant limits in other states. North Dakota voters were considering recreational marijuana but rejected it. The state already has a medical system in place. Bigger news came from other states which approved medical marijuana.
In addition to the various state initiatives, some local elections better defined rules and policies. For instance, a few cities in Ohio approved plans to lower cannabis possession penalties to be similar to vehicle citations, like traffic tickets. Some Wisconsin towns held advisory votes on whether to expand medical or recreational access. A total of 33 states and Washington, D.C., now have some degree of cannabis legalization.
Happy Holidays to you and yours from all of us at
Evercannabis®
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
DECEMBER 10
420 FASHION WEEK TALENT SEARCH AND HOLIDAY PARTY, PORTLAND.
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THE CANNABIS ALLIANCE, SEATTLE
15
POTLANDIA CANNA-COMEDY II, PORTLAND.
22
THE CHRIS PROTEST, SEATTLE.
23
THE DOPE SHOW, SPOKANE COMEDY CLUB
JAN
4 31 to 2 JAN
FEB
Show off your personal style and celebrate the holidays with a live DJ, fashion show and music. eventbrite.com/e/420-fashion-week-talentsearch-holiday-party-hoodies-converse-editiontickets-50403953582?aff=ebdssbdestsearch Learn what’s happening statewide at this monthly meeting of growers, retailers and other supporters of Washington’s cannabis system. Live feed locations available in Bellingham, Arlington, Tri-Cities and Olympia. www.thecannabisalliance. us/
Come and laugh, sample non-infused products and learn about local vendors. facebook.com/ events/2295231263839161/ Peaceful gathering to protest current business/ human resources conditions in the cannabis culture. potguide.com/washington/marijuanaevents/event/2018-12-22/the-chris-protest/
Enjoy laughs and cannabis-themed humor from national comedians. spokanecomedyclub.com/ events/21300
WASHINGTON CANNABIS SUMMIT, SEATTLE. The Cannabis Alliance organizes the fifth-annual gathering of cannabis policy and issues, ahead of the legislative session. www.thecannabisalliance. us/
CANNACON, SEATTLE. One of the region’s largest cannabis events returns to the Seattle Convention Center, with activities and resources for more than 12,000 visitors. cannacon.org/seattle/seattlecannacon-2019/
Planning a cannabis-themed event you want to include in this space? Send us the details at Evercannabis@spokesman.com
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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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By JOE BUTLER EVERCANNABIS Writer
SPOKANE GREEN LEAF CONTINUES TO ADAPT
I
f Todd Bennatt wanted to have a normal job, he’d still be an environmental engineer.
Instead, he’s co-owner of Spokane Green Leaf, which was the first licensed cannabis retailer in Spokane County and in the state of Washington. He and Kirk Haggerty opened the shop’s doors July 18, 2014, and since then they’ve seen the entire industry grow and change, grow and change, and grow and change some more. “It feels like such a long time ago,” Bennatt said. “One year in the cannabis world seems like seven years in any other business.” Before taking on this venture, he worked as an environmental engineer for 17 years, focusing on regulatory compliance. Selling legal cannabis to the public has been nothing like this. “Everything is so fluid, and if you don’t like change, it isn’t a good environment for you,” he said. “What’s not to like?” It’s always busy, from the first day when 700 customers waited in line and hundreds of local, national and international news media were calling. For the first few years, he and Kirk continued to work their regular jobs along with running Spokane Green Leaf. Bennatt’s last employer was Kaiser Aluminum, where he worked 12-hour days, then worked at least six more hours at the shop. “I woke up one day and realized I can’t continue doing this,” he said. “So now I’m doing this full-time. It’s so rewarding – I can’t imagine doing anything else.” Today, Bennatt and Haggerty are able to put all of their creative energy
into the shop. They make sure to create a positive customer experience, whether someone is coming in for the first time and unsure of what to do, say or buy, or has been a frequent visitor. “We pride ourselves on our customer service,” Bennatt said. “We have great budtenders, some who have been around since the beginning.” This longevity is an asset. “A lot of our employees have been working with the same customers for years so they know what they like, what they’re dealing with in their lives, and what they want to achieve through cannabis,” Bennatt said. “I’m shocked how much our employees know – they have true knowledge and have created some genuine friendships.”
Budtenders guide customers to what type of product can work best, whether it’s various strains of flower, edibles or concentrates to enjoy themselves. “We pride ourselves on having one of the larger product selections around,”
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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he said. “For sure, we have the largest amount of concentrates in town, and a third of our inventory is edibles, rather than just one corner of the shop.” In 2019, the Spokane Green Leaf team is looking forward to working with even more customers, in an increasingly challenging environment. There are just under 40 retailers in Spokane County, and it doesn’t seem that long ago that there was only a handful. So staying ahead of the competition is vital. “We now have more legal cannabis retailers here than the entire City of San Diego,” Bennatt said. Wholesale prices of cannabis products keep dropping, and some customers seek less expensive items. But Bennatt said the shop is ready to adjust as needed. “You have to be ready for anything, and always be flexible,” he said. Spokane Green Leaf now offers a price-match program. “Because there are so many stores around, we now guarantee that if someone finds a lower price for the same product at another store, we’ll honor it here,” Bennatt said. He also expects that Canada’s experiment with federal legalization will eventually lead to increased opportunities and access for U.S. customers. As more states continue to make cannabis legal, a federal decision allowing it could come within two years. That will be good for shops like Spokane Green Leaf and their customers who represent such a wide range of interests and professions. “People are a lot more accepting and there’s much less of a stigma,” he said. “I even have some of my conservative friends asking about CBD lotions to help with pain.”
Spokane Green Leaf Spokanegreenleaf.com (509) 919-3467
Spokane Green Leaf in north Spokane was the first recreational cannabis shop in the state to open its doors. Above, owners Kirk Haggerty, left, and Todd Bennatt. Opposite page, budtenders include Zack, Talee, Jessica, Caitlyn. (The shop does not release last names of staff for security reasons.) All photos courtesy Spokane Green Leaf
Infographic by GettyImages.com
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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Give the Gift of G INFUSED CHOCOLATE TRUFFLES By TRACY DAMON EVERCANNABIS Correspondent
INFUSED BATH SALTS
Available at most cannabis retailers
Get high as the THC soaks into y skin, available at Green Light
$35 for 10 candies Or make your own (recipe on page 23)
Let’s face it: Sometimes the only thing that gets some of us through the stress of the holidays is weed. So while it’s good to receive, don’t forget that your friends and loved ones could also benefit from a little of the gift that keeps on giving. With marijuana being made legal in more states every year, cool cannabis products are also becoming easier to find, and becoming more popular and accepted as suitable gifts for adults, or at least better than new socks or underwear. No matter who is on your shopping list this holiday season – whether they like to eat, drink smoke or vape – there is something for every marijuana enthusiast. So whether you’re shopping for a favorite stoner or an older relative interested in dipping their aching toe into the CBD culture, try some of these suggestions for gift ideas for a variety of budgets.
$22
GRINDERS If you prefer DIY, Green Light sells logoed grinders to break up your buds at home
$20
FOREST PHARMS VIT BATH BOMB
A water-soluble cannabinoid tu ultimate relaxation, available at S
$30 for 2-pack (50 grams ea “WAKE & BAKE” COFFEE MUG With a built-in pipe Available online
$10 - $30
FLEX-ALL 420 TOPICAL CREAM Soothes soreness, aches and joint pain, and promotes relaxation, available at Top Shelf
$50 for 2 oz.
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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Ganja this Season
S
your t
SNEAK A TOKE
STASH BAGS
Small, smokeless aluminum pipe available at Green Light
About the size of a makeup bag or shave kit but featuring air-tight zippers that keep the distinctive smell of weed from escaping
CANNABIS INFUSED LIP BALMS
$5
Available at local pot retailers in various flavors
Prices vary, begin at $19.95
$5 - $15
VERTUS Cannabis-infused champagne, available at The Top Shelf
ORANGE BUD OR ORANGE KUSH
PRE-ROLL PACKS Great for stocking stuffers, available in three strains at The Top Shelf
Indica-dominant hybrid that improves mood and reduces stress, available at most retailers
$21 for 5-pack (2.5 grams) $42 for 10-pack (5 grams)
$5 - $10 per gram $35 - $45 per half ounce
TALITY
ub soak for Sativa Sisters
MAGICALBUTTER MACHINE
ach)
Steep butter, oil or tincture in as little as an hour using the combination immersion blender, digital thermostat and heating unit, available online
$174 HONU COCONUT SNOWBALLS AND DARK CHOCOLATES Based in Western Washington, Honu products are sold statewide
$35 for 10 candies
$40 for 50 ml $60 for 100 ml
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
14
STRAIN OF THE MONTH Grams $5 Eights $15 Quarters $30
Half Ounce $45 Ounces $100 1G Oil $10
Tanker Tuesday - $15 .5g cartridge
THAI STICK
Waxy Wednesday - 20% off concentrate
GREEN BLUFF GREENHOUSE, SPOKANE THC: 15.08% | CBD: 0.29%
Munchie Monday - 20% off edibles
Thirsty Thursday - 20% off beverages Fire Friday - 20% off select farms Super Dope Saturday - 25% off concentrates Double Dip Sunday - 2x Baker Points Vendor Days every Friday! 1-(509)-244-8728 1515 S Lyons Rd Airway Heights, WA Mon - Sat : 8:30 - 12:00 Sun : 10:00 -11:00 Tokerfriendlyspokane.com
Having had the opportunity to try this original strain in the early 1970s while in Thailand 40 years ago, it wouldn’t be fair or accurate to try to compare the original with a 21st century version produced right outside of Spokane.
little earthy, and both flavors were topnotch! The first inhale presented sweet, earthy kush and then the grape flavor took over on the first exhale. The taste alone on this strain left me coming back for more.
Thai growers were the first to recognize the importance of a quality flower with seedless sticky flowers tied to a stick. Other imported varieties followed, but the legendary Thai Stick carries through into today.
EFFECTS: Coming through my little Moroccan hookah was a smooth deep flavor of very mild top-quality tobacco. The ideal curing shown through as a soothing smoke with no harshness. It wasn’t long before the effects creep up. By then everything had changed.
AROMA: Faintly earthy with an easily
identifiable minty spice plus a faint background of citrus. APPEARANCE: The flowers have a nice
loose fluffy texture cured to perfection with an olive green color. Under the scope the bud looks clearly translucent with every surface encrusted with the glands that hold the goodness. TASTE: Would you believe the taste was
The clearness of the high would guarantee a good uplifting feeling no matter what. Thai Stick could be a good motivator, especially at the end of the day if you’re looking for a second wind to take you into an enjoyable evening. BONUS: This strain is grown pesticide free. If you buy an eighth or more, the products from Green Bluff Greenhouse come in a nice looking reusable jar.
just like the smell? A little grapy and a Warning: This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Smoking is hazardous to your health. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Should not be used by women that are pregnant or breast feeding. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of reach of children. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug.
Reviewed by Rick Misterly, a Washington resident whose interest in cannabis dates back to the 1960s and has taken him around the world. He’s the cannabis and hashish curator for Green Barn Farms in Addy and writes the “Rick’s World of Hashish” blog.
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
ET
S
OT MA P E RK T TA
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The forecast was presented at a meeting of the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council as part of a broad look at the expectations for the state economy – and thus the state budget. It was largely a compendium of positive, and improving, economic news for the state; it included a revenue forecast of $45.6 billion for the current two-year budget, slightly improved from its last prediction in June. In short, the forecast said the upside of the current economic situation is elevated consumer and business confidence, which could translate to stronger growth and a strong labor market in the state. The downside is significant international trade uncertainty with our major trading partners, the effect of rising interest rates and a “maturing” economic expansion.
MAY HAVE PLATEAUED By SHAWN VESTAL The Spokesman-Review
In the big picture, marijuana revenue is small. Though tax and license revenues to the state have skyrocketed, those revenues remain less than 2 percent of the overall state budget, Lerch said. The overall state budget, though, may follow a similar if less dramatic pattern in the years to come, Lerch said. And as for the legal weed economy, it’s still a lot – hundreds of millions of dollars a year in retail sales. But it’s probably time to adjust our expectations for how fast it grows.
Have we reached peak pot? Since legalization, retail sales of marijuana have gone nothing but up, and dramatically so. In fiscal year 2015, sales reached $260 million. In FY 2016, that jumped to $786 million. In FY 2017, they exceeded $1.3 billion.
Happy Holiblaze
Tax receipts and license fees into state coffers followed a similar trajectory. In 2019, the number crunchers are foreseeing something new for this market: a plateau. “The rapid growth in cannabis revenue,” reads one slide in a state economic forecast presented this fall in Olympia, “is likely over.” Forecasters still predict increases in tax revenue in the near future, but very modest ones. The total state take on retail pot, in excise taxes and license fees, is expected to rise from $749 million in the two-year budget from July 2017 through June 2019 to $847 million in 2021-23 – a much slower pace of growth than we’ve seen so far. “Nothing is going to grow at that rate forever – even home prices in Seattle,” said Steve Lerch, executive director of the Economic and Revenue Forecast Council. Lerch said there are two primary reasons to expect a slowdown. The first is that most state licenses have been purchased, and the remaining ones tend to be in small, rural places. The other reason is that the migration of pot users onto the legal market is closer to complete all the time, with the relative ease and affordability of the retail stores. “Our assumption is a lot of the growth we saw was people moving from the black market to the legal market,” he said.
OUNCE S AS L OW AS
$50
EST. 2014
509.309.3193
GreenLightSpokane.com
OPEN
DAILY S P E CIAL S
8am-11pm DAILY
10309 E. Trent Ave. | Spokane Valley, WA 99206 Check Out Our Website! "WARNING: This product has intoxicating affects and may be habit forming. Smoking is hazardous to your health. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. Should not be used by women that are pregnant or breast feeding. For use only by adults 21 and older. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug."
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
16
By JOE BUTLER EVERCANNABIS Writer
brings in thousands
The ďŹ rst-ever Lemonhaze Cannabis Convention brought together more than 3,000 members of the state’s cannabis community in late October. Promoted as the ďŹ rst and largest convention of its kind, especially for Washington cannabis businesses, the gathering offered two days of networking, seminars, exchanging of information and even laughing, courtesy of four professional comedians. The event at the Tacoma Dome was organized by Lemonhaze, a company that provides digital networking and sales platforms statewide to growers and retailers. It was open to the public as well as all legal cannabis businesses. Lemonhaze ofďŹ cials created the convention as a way to build relationships, learn about new products and services, increase their knowledge and have fun. And though there are several cannabis conferences that take place in different states, there aren’t any that focus just on Washington businesses.
There were 125 vendor booths as well as 67 speakers for 13 seminars. There were also representatives from various state trade associations, including the Cannabis Alliance, the Cannabis Farmers Council, NORML, Washington Sungrowers Association and the Washington Marijuana Business Association. These groups also held meetings during the event to let people know what they’re about, discuss current issues and seek new members. In some cases, they also found ways to foster collaboration. For instance, the Cannabis Alliance, Washington Cannabis Association and CORE – short for Cannabis Organization of Retail Establishments – held an industry round-table to discuss an upcoming “re-categorizationâ€? of certain edibles. The Washington State Liquor and Cannabis Board recently told companies that produce certain edibles that they must use their current inventory and then not make any more, since their items potentially look appealing to children. After April, these items either can’t be sold or must be modiďŹ ed. However, after concern from the community, the state extended the timeline by 30 days to allow industry groups to come up with suggestions for alternative standards. The “Coming Togetherâ€? panel discussed possible approaches and proposals to address the LCB’s concern about possible exposure to children and allow growers to continue to produce edibles. Other seminar topics included: s 4HE ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITY OF MODERN NEWS MEDIA IN ACCURATELY covering the cannabis industry. s !DVANCES IN TECHNOLOGY FOR GROWING AND PROCESSING PLANTS s 3AFE AND LEGAL WAYS TO PREPARE EDIBLES s #ONTINUED TRAINING AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT FOR BUDTENDERS and growers. s 4HE IMPORTANCE OF SMART EFFECTIVE AND AFFORDABLE ADVERTISING One of the well-attended workshops focused on branding, which is vital for growers and retailers in a state where there are three times as many growers as shops, and everyone sells similar items. Businesses were encouraged to think in terms of Coke vs. Pepsi – both have similar amounts of water, bubbles and caramel color, but each one “speaksâ€? to their fans with their colors, logos and overall experience.
Photo courtesy Lemonhaze
Better branding and appealing to customers were suggested as smarter strategies than trying to keep lowering product prices to get into stores. Cultivating relationships with other growers, budtenders and even the media can all work in one’s favor.
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
BODHI HIGH HELPS CHOCOLATE MAKER RAMP UP TO A LARGER LEVEL
GET TING BIGGER By JOE BUTLER EVERCANNABIS Writer
Cory Johnson and Brad Frey faced a tough decision two years ago. They had developed high-quality chocolate edibles that medical marijuana patients loved, but were unsure if they should produce them for the newer recreational market. “We entered them in Dope Cup, and told ourselves that if we won, we would have to develop our business plan about how to push into 502,” said Johnson. “If we lose, we’d move back overseas and do other things.” Johnson, a chef, was originally from the Northwest and had been cooking at restaurants in Dubai and Spain. Frey, an architect, had also been living in Dubai. Both shared a love of edibles. Their Odd Duck products ended up winning the “Best CBD Edible” category in 2016, which provided motivation to produce them on a larger scale. This would include finding partners to help with distribution as well as provide extracted cannabis oil. After shopping the idea around to about a dozen Spokane-area producers/processors, they partnered with a small Eastern Washington grower. This initial arrangement worked well to get up and running, but a year later, Odd Duck needed more room to grow. “Our initial partnership was good, but didn’t have a great distribution for edibles,” Johnson said. “We needed more to go to the next level.” Johnson and Frey had positive conversations with
Sam Kannall, owner of Bodhi High, a Spokane Valley-based company that creates a variety of extracted products and also distributes the Honey Tree brand of concentrates. “Our goal has always been to help facilitate and incubate other brands and build more companies,” Kannall said. “We want to find partners with passion and expertise eager to think at a national level.” Bodhi High owned a commercial kitchen already approved for cannabis use by the Washington Liquor and Cannabis Board, Department of Health and the Department of Agriculture. But it didn’t have any edible brands in the space. “We had everything ready, but didn’t want to get into doing R&D on edibles ourselves,” Kannall said. Luckily, Johnson and Frey wanted to do nothing more than create edibles, without worrying about growing, processing or sales. So now Odd Duck makes the edibles and Bodhi High gets them into stores.
is something quality but at a discounted price.” Odd Duck has already run into some challenges– a few days after they released Delights, the WSLCB began re-classifying many edibles, especially chewy ones. “We are optimistic that the Delights will be approved, but ultimately our vision is bigger than Washington,” Kannall said. “If this state doesn’t want them, other states will.” Early reports are positive – non-infused Odd Duck samples attracted enthusiasm at Bodhi High’s booth at Tacoma’s Lemonhaze Convention. Odd Duck products can be found at more than 30 shops statewide. Non-infused samples can be tried at various vendor days. “Adding Odd Duck under our umbrella allows us to diversify a little more,” Kannall said. “We’re now better positioned to meet the needs of adult consumers in Washington.” For more information visit www.oddduck502. com or bodhihigh.com.
Odd Duck has four flavors of chocolates: orange, dark, coffee and mint. They also released a new product in September called Odd Duck Delights. The chocolate products start with fine Belgium cocoa. Natural flavorings come from cold-pressed essential oils. Great efforts are taken to mask any marijuana taste. The Odd Duck brand focuses on quality and pricing, and fits a gap they saw in the edible marketplace. “Some edibles taste horrible, with strong weed flavor, but they are cheap,” Frey said. “Others are great but really expensive. What we want to offer
Cory Johnson, left, and Brad Frey are the owners of Odd Duck, which creates quality infused chocolate and other edibles. Photos courtesy Odd Duck
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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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CANNABIS NEWS FROM AROUND THE STATE
BREWERS LOOKING INTO CANNABIS COMBOS
POT USERS CAN DISRUPT FERRY TIMES
NO RE-VOTE ON POT BAN IN YAKIMA
DRUG STORE TO SELL CBD ITEMS
SEATTLE – In 2013, Hilliard’s Beer and Redhook Brewing created a limited-edition beer called Joint Session Ale to celebrate the passage of Initiative 502. It was flavored with hemp seeds and was legal to buy and sell, since hemp products don’t have as many restrictions as cannabis. Since then, people in the cannabis and the beer industry have looked for legal ways to collaborate. One result might be a new brew from Wingman Brewers, based in Tacoma, which teamed up with brewers from Trapdoor Brewing and Boundary Bay Brewery, plus cannabis producer Green Rose Gardens, to create Mighty High IPA, a beer flavored with terpenes found in cannabis plants. Terpenes are the specific natural flavoring that distinguish one fruit or vegetable from another, even within the same family (tangerines vs. navel oranges). Each strain of cannabis has a unique terpene profile. The beer is described as “a lightbodied beer featuring Denali and Meridian hops, along with Blue Dream terpenes.” Since Mighty High won’t contain THC, only cannabis flavoring,it will be legal to sell at adult establishments statewide. It will be sold at brewpubs and have a limited release in cans.
ANACORTES – Washington State Ferry
YAKIMA – Yakima was one of the only
Eastern Washington counties to vote against Initiative 502 five years ago. The community still remains divided. Last year, in an advisory vote, about 60 percent of voters voted to affirm a ban on all growers and retailers in unincorporated areas of the county. This wouldn’t affect cannabis businesses in cities. The county has begun the process to shut down more than 20 businesses. However, some in the industry and community have said the ballot language was confusing. In October, County Commissioner Mike Leita proposed a second advisory vote to allow growers but not retailers, but the two other commissioners voted against his motion. Leita was responding to an offer from the owner of a farm outside Zillah who offered to pay for the cost of the election and drop his appeal of the county’s intention to shut his business down if another election was held. Commissioner Ron Anderson said he opposed a second vote because the county is already facing litigation from the first vote. “We need to let that process work its way through the system,” he said. “We can’t avert from that.”
SEATTLE – Bartell Drugs, a chain
officials warn passengers to avoid displaying or using their cannabis purchases, whether they’re coming from Canada or staying within the state. One line goes between Anacortes and Sydney, British Columbia, which is close to Victoria. Recreational marijuana is legal in B.C. as well as Washington, but it is illegal to cross the border with it. It’s also illegal to use in a public space, which state ferries are considered. Though ferry officials can’t arrest passengers if they’re observed with cannabis, they do have the ability to call authorities, including the Coast Guard, if something or someone looks suspicious, which may delay the vessel’s departure. The Coast Guard, a federal agency, also treats cannabis as an illegal substance, regardless of local laws. The Kingston-Edmonds route was delayed for 20 minutes in September when police detained a couple observed smoking cannabis. Ferry officials emphasized they will also be watching teen passengers closely for possible cannabis possession or use. While Washington residents have to be at least age 21 to purchase cannabis products, the minimum age in British Columbia is 19.
Source: Washington Beer Blog
Source: KING
Source: Yakima Herald-Republic
of stores in Western Washington, announced plans to begin carrying CBD goods at selected locations in the Seattle area, but this could grow based on demand. CBD is a natural compound in cannabis that causes pain relief and relaxation. These items will contain less than .3 percent of THC, an active compound that causes physical and mental intoxication, otherwise known as “high.” “We have received positive responses from our customers,” said Hannah Kubiak, Bartell’s communications manager. “After extensive research, it has been proven that many people find these type of products beneficial and we want to be able to offer them the choice.” Kubiak said the 100 percent CBD products will include extract capsules, oils and infused topicals. They will only be available to customers ages 18 and over. They will also be stored in locked cabinets. “The next generation of pain relief is focused on natural remedies and many patients have found that CBD products provide them the relief that they are seeking,” she said. CDB products can be found at a variety of health food and specialties stores, but not at pharmacies.
Source: Seattle PI
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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CANNABIS NEWS FROM AROUND THE WORLD
STUDY SHOWS MORE ACCIDENTS IN LEGAL STATES
FACEBOOK ALLOWS POT SEARCHES
NEVADA SALES SET RECORDS
MEDMEN MOVE INTO ARIZONA
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Insurance
PALO ALTO, Calif. – Facebook
CARSON CITY – Residents and visitors to Nevada are buying plenty of marijuana products, as indicated by larger monthly totals since sales began in July 2017. The state’s Department of Taxation recently reported that July 2018 brought in $7.9 million in tax revenue, which is a $4.2 million increase from the previous July. Customers pay a wholesale tax for medical marijuana and a sales tax for recreational marijuana. The combined $4.1 million retail tax revenue and $3.8 million wholesale tax revenue indicated that there were legal sales of nearly $41 million in one month alone, which makes it one of the top three months since sales began, and the largest retail sales. Bill Anderson, executive director of the Department of Taxation, anticipates even more funds ahead. “The combined taxes are projected to bring in $69.4 million over the course of this fiscal year, which runs through June 2019,” he said. Nevada already has brought in more than $500 million in taxes since legal sales began. Revenue goes to the general fund and education fund.
PHOENIX – MedMen, a high-end chain of cannabis dispensaries, announced plans to begin serving Arizona medical marijuana customers and investing in the state’s cannabis marketplace. It recently purchased the Monarch Wellness Center, a dispensary in Scottsdale, and a large cultivation center in Mesa. The company is based in Los Angeles, and has eight dispensaries in Southern California, four in New York, and plans to open its third location in Nevada soon. Co-founder and CEO Adam Bierman said it makes sense to move into Arizona. The state is still getting up to speed with regards to medical marijuana. Being close to Nevada and California also can help with operations. “We have a leading presence in those primary markets and we are now ready to expand our reach,” Beirman said. MedMen also recently announced a co-manufacturing interest with Kiva Confections, a chocolate cannabis company in California; Huxton USA, which sells flower, pre-rolls and vape products; and Mirth Provisions, which sells infused beverages in Washington. Monarch began operations in 2013 as the first dispensary in Scottsdale. It has made more than $10 million. MedMen said its offer to Monarch included an undisclosed figure made up of cash and company stock.
Source: FOX 13
Source: Phoenix New Times
Institute for Highway Safety released a report in late October showing that the number of reported car accidents was higher in three states with legalized recreation of marijuana. Although the data used in the study didn’t specifically say whether any of these accidents were directly caused by marijuana, institute officials said there could be a connection. The study looked at reported accidents in Colorado, Washington and Oregon, then compared them to Idaho, Wyoming and pre-legal Nevada. It found 5.2 percent more accidents and 6.2 percent more accident insurance claims in the legal states. Various traffic studies have shown conflicting data in the last five years that recreational cannabis has been legal in much of the West. For instance, the JAMA Internal Medicine showed an increase of crashes each April 20 over the last 25 years, while the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration showed no increase in crash risk due to cannabis use when adjusted to demographic factors such as gender and age. Many Western states have also experienced population booms in that time period. Without singling cannabis out, the NTSB has also publicly spoken out about increases in drug-impaired drivers.
users can now search for cannabis information on the social network. The company previously wouldn’t allow cannabis-themed business pages, or provide search results to people seeking cannabis information. It also had a reputation of quickly removing pages or killing posts, even if a legitimate business created one. At the time, company officials said this full ban was to prevent users from using the platform to directly buy or sell cannabis products, rather than promote or invite customers to their businesses. However, with the legalization of cannabis in Canada, Facebook adjusted its policies, following requests from official government agencies and cannabis associations. For instance, users weren’t able to find the official page for the California Bureau of Cannabis Control. “This is a change in our tactics when it comes to what is discoverable when using Facebook Search,” said company spokeswoman Sarah Pollack. “Our community standards make it very clear that buying, selling or trading non-medical pharmaceutical drugs or marijuana is not allowed.” Cannabis businesses creating business pages will have to provide a mobile number for verification. Most new business pages will be coded with a gray verification badge, which shows they are legitimate; blue verification badges are reserved for well-known brands, celebrities and media companies.
Source: Fortune
Source: Digital Journal
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
LARGE GROWING FACILITY COMING TO SPOKANE By NICHOLAS DESHAIS The Spokesman-Review
Developers are seeking permission to build a 9,500-square-foot cannabis facility in the Hillyard area. The location is a couple of blocks from a future interchange with the north-south freeway, according to documents filed with the city. Called the Cashmere Grow Facility, the $400,000 project at 3807 E. Olympic Ave. would house a cannabis-grow facility and
APEXCANNABIS.COM
MOSES LAKE 955 W BDWY AVE MOSES LAKE, WA
SPOKANE 1325 N DIVISION SPOKANE, WA
include space for harvesting, packaging and offices. A second phase of the project would build a stand-alone “extraction” center, which would produce derivatives of the product. The property, which is vacant, was purchased in November 2017 for $179,000 by Cashmere Holdings LLC, according to county property records. The land and project owner is listed as Mehran Khosravi. Cody Dompier, Dompier Architecture in Spokane, is listed as the project’s contact.
OTIS ORCHARDS 21502 E GILBERT RD OTIS ORCHARDS, WA
Warning: This product has intoxicating effects & may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, & judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 years or older. Keep out of reach of children.
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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
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10525 E. Trent Avenue Spokane Valley, WA · 509.381.1502 · SativaSisters.com m This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgement. Do no operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of marijuana. There are health risks associated with the consumption of this product. For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of the reach of children. It is illegal to take marijuana outside of Washington. Doing so may result in significant legal penalties.
EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
infused s e  u r t e t a l choco
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HOW TO MAKE YOUR OWN CANNABUTTER í˘ą Preheat oven to 240 degrees. Spread marijuana plant material in a single layer on a baking sheet with sides. Bake for 40 minutes, turning the sheet a couple of times to ensure even heat. The cannabis will become dry and crumbly.
í˘˛ Boil 1 quart of water in a medium saucepan. When water is boiling place butter in the pan and melt completely. Use 4 sticks of butter to every ounce of marijuana.
í˘ł
For more cannabis stories, visit www.thefreshtoast.com Photo courtesy of thefreshtoast.com
YOU WILL NEED: Double boiler Small mixing bowl
Melt butter in the small mixing bowl. Once both the chocolate and butter melt, slowly add the butter to the chocolate, whisking well.
Whisk
Add the cookie crumbs, nuts, fruit and chili powder.
Silicon molds (see Notes)
Pour into the molds.
INGREDIENTS: 20 oz. milk or dark chocolate 5-10 oz. cannabutter Cookie crumbs, nuts, and/or dried fruit Dash chili powder
PREPARATION: Fill the bottom of double boiler about halfway with water and set to simmer on the stove. Pour the chocolate chips in the top portion of double boiler. Let the chocolate melt while you melt butter.
Chill overnight in the fridge. Wrap trufes in colored foils or ďŹ ll gift boxes. Keep refrigerated.
NOTES: Use dark or milk chocolate or a combination of both. Add the sugar cookie crumbs, chopped nuts or dried fruit for added texture and avor. Silicone molds. Various shapes and sizes are available online but you can use ice cube trays.
Once the butter has melted add the marijuana. (If you want to vary the amount, be sure that the marijuana is always oating about 1 1/2 – 2 inches from the bottom.) Simmer for about three hours. It’s done when the top of the mix turns from really watery to glossy and thick. Place in heatproof bowl, with a double layer of cheesecloth over the top, secured with elastic, string or tape.
í˘´ Strain the marijuana butter over the bowl. When the saucepan is empty, undo the string, pick up the cheesecloth from all four sides and squeeze out remaining butter.
í˘ľ Allow cannabutter to cool for about an hour. Place in the fridge until the butter has risen to the top layer and is solid.
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EVERCANNABIS is a supplement to The Spokesman−Review • Friday, December 7, 2018
Order online and dash to your stash. royalscannabis.com/OrderOnline
This product has intoxicating effects and may be habit forming. Marijuana can impair concentration, coordination, and judgment. Do not operate a vehicle or machinery under the influence of this drug. There may be health risks associated with consumption of this product. For use only by adults twenty-one and older. Keep out of the reach of children.